Last week, approximately 105 Van Wert High School seniors participated in the 5th year of tours with local businesses and manufacturers. All juniors in the State of Ohio are required to take the ACT Test during the school day. As a result, Van Wert High School provides a variety of activities for the other high school grade levels.
One of which finds the senior students visiting local businesses to learn about the employment opportunities and services/products offered and manufactured in Van Wert. Van Wert High School seniors tour two different businesses one involving that of a manufacturing business. Eight different businesses agreed to open their doors and host the senior students. Groups ranged from 21-29 students per group. Each company tour was just shy of 2 hours in length. The students were able to learn a variety of information from the tours to include product information, history of the company, number employed, pay/benefits offered, credentials and certification requirements and future employment needs and demands.
“ It is an opportunity for students to see what is actually happening “inside” the facility. Students may drive by a business 100+ times but not realize what is going on inside. As a result, students are able to see how things are made right here in Van Wert. The company representatives openly discuss what it takes to be a “good” employee (collaboration, teamwork, showing up for work, critical thinking, pride in doing your best, etc…),” Van Wert High School’s Career Counseler, Kerry Koontz said.
“There are many other layers regarding the “why” students get this opportunity and exposure. It is a great opportunity for businesses to showcase their business and share future employment opportunities. Businesses want the ability to connect with students as future opportunities occur. Likewise, students also gain insight with respect to future employment considerations. The day of tours naturally provide a connection between the businesses and the schools. And with such emphasis on Workforce Development, this provides a great tool to better connect the two,” said Koontz.
A big thank you to Alliance Automation, Central Insurance Companies, Cooper Farms, CQT Kennedy Mfg., Greif, Millwork Brands, Tecumseh Packaging, and Tenneco and all their employees who helped organize this opportunity for students!